Veteran’s manager on client’s delisting

PLAYER manager Scott Lucas has shed light on Essendon’s decision to delist veteran midfielder David Zaharakis.

The 31-year-old was not offered a new contract by the Bombers after playing just nine games in 2021, ending his 13-year career at the club.

Lucas, the CEO of Phoenix Management, said “some really honest conversations” took place between his client and Essendon coach Ben Rutten.

“You’re having discussions with player and club along the way, so you get a sense of where it sits and where it might be moving,” Lucas told SEN’s Bob and Andy.

“All I can say overall is Zacka had some really honest conversations with the coach.

“Players don’t always like the decisions and like what they are going to hear, but if done in the right way then you just respect that person for being honest and upfront.

“That’s all you can ask for as a player. I think that’s what any player we deal with wants, just tell me what I need to know, when I need to know.

“From that point of view, it’s never easy for clubs to effectively call time on the careers of great players, loyal servants, well-loved players.

“But that’s the business we’re in.”

Zaharakis played 226 games for Essendon, winning a Crichton Medal in 2011 and an Anzac Day Medal in 2013.

– BY ALEX ZAIA/ SEN